By Texas Homes & Land
The first month in a new town goes by quickly, especially once the boxes are unpacked and the routines start falling into place. In Celina, those early weeks are also a great time to get to know the community, from the brick streets of the downtown square to the newer neighborhoods spreading across the countryside. A little planning upfront makes everything easier, whether that means setting up utilities, updating your paperwork, or finding the spots that will soon feel like your regular places. This checklist walks you through the essentials so your first 30 days feel organized and welcoming.
Key Takeaways
- Celina’s online Resident Dashboard is the easiest way to confirm your utility providers and trash day by address.
- Texas gives new residents set windows to register vehicles and update their driver’s licenses, so it helps to schedule those early.
- Filing for your homestead exemption is one of the most valuable steps a new homeowner can take.
- Spending time on the downtown square is one of the best ways to start feeling connected to Celina.
What Should You Set Up During Your First Week?
Your first week is mostly about making the house work the way you need it to. Celina’s utility setup depends on where you live, since some parts of town are served by Grayson-Collin Electric Cooperative while others fall in Oncor’s area, where you can choose your own electricity provider.
The city’s Resident Resources page includes a Resident Dashboard that shows your electric provider, trash pickup day, fiber options, and HOA contact information once you enter your address.
The city’s Resident Resources page includes a Resident Dashboard that shows your electric provider, trash pickup day, fiber options, and HOA contact information once you enter your address.
First-Week Essentials
- Set up water, sewer, and trash service through the City of Celina’s utility billing department.
- Confirm whether your home is served by Grayson-Collin Electric Cooperative or Oncor before choosing an electricity plan.
- Contact Atmos Energy to start natural gas service, since it’s the primary gas provider for most of the area.
- Check which internet providers reach your street, as fiber availability can vary from one neighborhood to the next.
Which Paperwork Should You Handle in the First Few Weeks?
Once the house is running smoothly, it’s a good time to take care of the official details. Texas asks new residents to register their vehicles within 30 days of moving and to get a Texas driver’s license within 90 days. Celina sits in both Collin and Denton counties, so you’ll want to confirm which county you live in before heading to the tax office. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles has a helpful guide for anyone new to the state.
Paperwork to Put on Your Calendar
- Have your vehicle inspected at a certified station, since a passing inspection is required before registration.
- Register your vehicle with your county tax assessor-collector within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.
- Visit a Department of Public Safety office to transfer your driver’s license within 90 days.
- Update your voter registration, so you’re ready to participate in local and state elections.
How Can You Make the Most of Owning Your Home?
Buying a home in Celina comes with a few homeowner tasks that pay off for years. The most important one is filing for your homestead exemption, which can lower the taxable value of your primary residence. You can apply through the Collin Central Appraisal District or Denton Central Appraisal District, depending on your address. Our guide to understanding property taxes in Celina explains how the process works and what to expect.
Homeowner To-Dos for Your First Month
- File your homestead exemption with your county appraisal district as soon as you’re eligible.
- Gather your closing documents, warranty information, and HOA paperwork into one easy-to-find folder.
- Change the locks and garage codes so you know exactly who has access to your home.
- Locate your water shut-off valve and breaker panel, so you’re ready if a quick repair comes up.
Where Should You Go to Start Feeling at Home?
The best part of your first month is discovering what makes Celina special. The downtown square is a natural place to start, with local coffee, scratch-made pies, slow-smoked brisket, and boutiques along its brick streets. If you arrive in time, Celina’s Friday Night Market wraps up its 2026 season on November 6 with local vendors, food, and live music. The holiday season brings Christmas on the Square, which is one of the easiest ways to meet your new neighbors.
Easy Ways to Get Connected
- Spend a Saturday morning exploring the shops and restaurants around the downtown square.
- Follow the city’s event calendar so you can plan around festivals, movie nights, and holiday celebrations.
- Introduce yourself to neighbors and ask about their favorite local restaurants and parks.
- Join your HOA’s newsletter or community group to stay up to date on neighborhood events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which county is Celina in?
Celina sits in both Collin and Denton counties, with most of the city in Collin County. Your address determines which appraisal district and tax office you’ll work with.
When can I file for a homestead exemption in Texas?
You can apply once you own and live in the home as your primary residence. Many homeowners file shortly after closing so the exemption can apply to that year’s taxes.
How do I find out my trash pickup day in Celina?
The City of Celina’s Resident Dashboard shows your trash day when you enter your address. The Public Works Department can also help with recycling and bulk pickup questions.
Reach Out to Texas Homes & Land Today
Moving to Celina is an exciting change, and the first few weeks set the tone for everything that follows. Our Celina office sits just off the downtown square, so we know the town well and love helping new residents find their footing, from connecting utilities to finding their new favorite lunch spot.
If you’re planning a move or have just arrived, reach out to Texas Homes & Land, and we’ll help make Celina feel like home from the very first day.
If you’re planning a move or have just arrived, reach out to Texas Homes & Land, and we’ll help make Celina feel like home from the very first day.
